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Back from the Vet

Dr. Larry didn't see anything that would cause concern on Bob's x-ray, but as you know, x-rays don't show everything. Bob's blood panel came back mostly just fine, but there was one serious value, that of his ALT or liver function. Bob's always had a high ALT, up to about 450 or so, when in the 20-100 is normal. Bob was on Denamarin for a long time, but when he was sick last year, I took him off it. Last May his ALT was down to 236, which we all considered to be good news. Today it was in the 700's!

I don't know if Bob's fall injured his liver or that his liver is in bad shape and it was just fate that we found out he was in trouble after his fall. Or, if Bob had a heart attack since ALT can raise from heart ailments, too.

Bob's already back on the Denamarin and to be extra careful, I'm taking Bob to VREC in Norwalk early tomorrow afternoon to get an ultrasound done of his liver. Going there means giving them my wallet, but so be it. I will do whatever it takes for Bob.

Bob's home. He ate well for me and then had a big drink of water. He's hanging out, watching what's going on. I wish he'd get on his fluffy bed and rest, but maybe it's good that he's alert.

Thursday I'm supposed to fly to Chicago to attend Petsmart Charities Feline Forum. I can't leave here knowing Bob's health is at risk. I hope to get some answers tomorrow and find out if it's OK for me to leave Bob for a few days. Sam will be here, but he tells me he'll be away from home for a long chunk of the day on Friday and he's busy with work. I'm really the hawk when it comes to keeping an eye on how the cats are doing.

By the way, we measured the distance Bob fell so I can tell the Vet tomorrow-16.6 feet. If he fell a few inches closer to the deck, he would have hit some large rocks. It made me sick to realize that. I just hope Bob will be all right. I'm scared to know what they'll find out tomorrow. I fear that this is the beginning of the end for him.

Comments

Bob's a fighter. Maybe his fall will end up being a blessing in disguise - without it, you wouldn't know about his liver and you wouldn't be able to treat him.

Eating, drinking and pooping are the holy trinity of animal health, so Bob is probably feeling okay. I hope that his test results help you all form a care plan for his liver. If you decide to not go to the conference, that's okay. Don't let anyone make you feel like you should go because it's paid for or because Sam can keep an eye on Bob while youre gone. You do what you need to do.

Know that you're among friends who have also gone through the beginning of the end. You've always loved and appreciated Bob, and it's especially important for your mental health to realize what a wonderful life he has with you. Had you not stepped in, what would his life be like? Celebrate the time you have with Bob (considering the care you provide your animals, that could be a looong celebration). Stay positive for him and the rest of the crew. They'll return the positivity and buoy you.

Bob knows he's not alone. Neither are you.

I hope your news tomorrow is reassuring.

I just wanted to let you know that I have sky-dived out my second story apartment window about 3 times and bounced back everytime!!! I've had a few torn pads, broken claws, a fat lip and a broken fang - but I'm OK... and Bob will be too. The liver damage is possibly from the scotch he would have been given by Sir Fudge on twitter... purely medicinal purposes. Please try not to worry too much - Bob looks great in his photo and you've done all the right things quickly and giving him the best treatment. Be positive and Bob will pick up on the vibe and bounce back even faster. Take care and congrats on being such a great moooomm!

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